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With their bright colors and warm glow, it is hard to miss a neon sign. That’s probably why there are so many of them out there. These iconic sights are part of the visual fabric of this country, and countries around the world.

The neon sign was first introduced in its modern form at the 1910 Paris Motor Show. They caused an immediate sensation, and artists, architects, designers and business owners saw their potential from the start. By 1940, there were as many as 2,000 shops in the United States alone producing neon signs.

Neon signage is not as popular as it used to be, but there are still a few signs that everyone recognizes. Many cities are also making efforts to restore their classic signs. Take a trip through the golden age of neon signage, and see if you recognize some of these iconic landmarks.

The Las Vegas Sign

Even if you have never been to Las Vegas, you probably recognize the sign that welcomes visitors to town. It was built in 1959 and has become as iconic as any of the hotels on the Strip. Las Vegas has always been a city of lights, and the welcome sign is just one of dozens of neon masterpieces that are still shining bright in Sin City.

Sam the Record Man Sign

Sam’s Record Store in Toronto has a neon sign that is impossible to miss. Two gigantic vinyl records are mounted to the front of the store and feature neon tubing in place of the grooves. Not only is this sign attention-grabbing, it also shows off all the creative ways there are to use neon. As long as Sam is still selling records, his sign will draw in customers from far and wide.

Coca-Cola Sign in Times Square

In 1920, an upstart soda company called Coca-Cola erected a 75-foot-tall sign in Times Square. In 1923, neon lighting was added, making the sign the second largest electric sign in the world at the time. The memorable ad was moved to a different location in 1932 where it has undergone many upgrades and modifications. The original, however, is a symbol of the neon wonderland that was Times Square in the first half of the 20th century.

Grain Belt Beer Sign

More people probably recognized the Grain Belt Beer sign than have actually tried the product. The neon letters of the name are superimposed over a giant rendering of the bottle cap. The sign was erected soon after Prohibition ended, and is directly adjacent to a major bridge in Minneapolis. It is still lit today and considered by most to be a local landmark.

New advances in signage have become more popular than neon for many businesses. But this style of sign is still in use, and people are finding creative ways to display them. It goes to show how popular and effective electronic signage is for businesses. The customers of the future, just like the customers of the past, will stop and stare when they see a truly spectacular electronic sign.